The data provided by the CDC (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention) indicated that toenail fungus affects up to 14% of the population.
At first, fungal toenails seem to be a cosmetic concern, however, when left untreated for a longer time, the infection can spread to other toenails. In some untreatable cases of fungal toenails, wearing shoes or walking becomes difficult. Moreover, it’s the recurrence of the infection that affects the quality of life. Therefore, patients suffering from this condition are in dire need of a solution that not only effectively kills the infection but also works efficiently against its rapid recurrence.
Toenail Fungus Laser therapy is considered thegold standard of treatment. Studies are conducted to assess the efficacy of laser pulses against pathogens. Based on the clinical trials, the laser is considered the most effective of the available treatment options, including topical and oral medications.
Today’s post aims at discussingthe efficacy levels of nail fungus laser therapy. The article provides an in-depth insight into the limitations of current treatment options and also evaluates why laser is the simple, effective, and most recommended choice for toenail fungus.
Why must toenail fungus not be left untreated?
The most common signs of toenail fungus are thick, yellowish, or brittle nails. Some experience pain during the infection and for some, the appearance of the nails becomes a point of concern. However, such toenails should be treated immediately because when left untreated there might be some serious consequences.
Especially the elderly, diabetics, and immunocompromised people must pay attention to the toenail discoloration and get it treated immediately. There is evidence of permanent damage and toe infection due to the delayed treatment of fungal toenails.
What makes laser therapy the most effective treatment?
An individual diagnosed with toenail fungus has various treatment options. The most common are topical medications. A gel or an ointment works slowly against toenail fungus. Depending on the severity of the infection, one needs to follow a rigorous regimen for more than nine months to get rid of the infection.
Another treatment method for toenail fungus is oral medication. The dermatophytes that cause brittle and crumbly nails are stubborn and take longer to be killed with medications. Taking oral medications for a prolonged duration has its own sideeffects. It increases toxicity in the liver and also affects microbial resistance.
Studies make it evident that both topical and oral medications work slowly on the fungal toenails and are not at all effective in preventing the recurrence of the infection. On the other hand,Laser Toenail Fungus Removal therapy is proven beneficial for killing the infection, promoting faster regrowth of healthier nails and effectively preventing recurring infections.
Is it safe to get laser treatment for toenail fungus?
Laser therapy is an absolutely safe treatment option for toenail fungus. The effect of treatment is illustrated in the below mentioned points:
- Laser treatment is an FDA approved intervention for toenail fungus.
- There are no known side effects of laser therapy for toenail fungus.
- It is a non-invasive and non-toxic method to get rid of stubborn toenail fungus.
- Laser therapy is considered beneficial, especially for difficult to treat fungus.
- Laser beams only work on dangerous pathogens and the surrounding tissues are completely protected during the treatments.
- There is no known evidence of damage to the nail plate or nail bed during the medical procedure.
Who can get laser therapy for toenail fungus?
Although laser treatment is considered the safest medical procedure for fungal removal from toenails. It is highly advised to consult a podiatrist if you are diabetic, pregnant or dealing with the complications of peripheral vascular disease.
How long does it take to kill toenail fungus with laser treatment?
The duration of the course depends mostly on the severity of the infection.
The growth rate of the healthy toenail is evident after the first laser session in patients who had mild to moderate levels of infection. For severely infected toenails, more than three sessions are required. Each session of laser therapy lasts for only 20 minutes and the regrowth of a healthy toenail can be observed within three months post-procedure.
Does laser treatment hurt toenails?
Although every patient has a different pain threshold, recent studies have revealed that the treatment can be tolerated without the need for anaesthesia.
Mild to moderate discomfort can be observed during the session. However, no postoperative complications are expected with laser treatment.
Is laser fungal toenail treatment worth it?
Whether it’s their busy schedule or the usual ignorance, most adults have the tendency to wait for the fungal toenails to clear on their own. The consequences can even lead to permanent damage or painful ingrown toenails. Therefore, timely intervention is required to kill the stubborn toenail fungus.
Topical and oral medications have plenty of sideeffects and these procedures take months to get a clear toenail. Laser therapy is highly efficacious for killing the fungus. It is a faster, side-effect free and non-toxic medical procedure.
When compared to the cost of oral and topical medications, along with the doctor’s fees and other expenses for a year, laser therapy becomes a sensible choice. It is totally worth it to spend on a faster, more convenient, pain-free and non-toxic treatment option.
Consult your eligibility criteria for laser therapy with the most experienced podiatrists at Orange County Foot and Ankle Group. Their team of specialists is recognized widely for top-notch laser toenail fungus removal and ingrown toenail surgery.